6 Big Perks of Shopping on Small Business Saturday!

Black Friday will undoubtedly be big. With hundreds of large corporate marketing campaigns pushing for deals and advertisements, it’s easy for small businesses to get overshadowed by the madness. But sales don’t end on Friday; Saturday is also a shopping holiday designated for small companies! Held annually the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday has many perks just for you!

About Small Business Saturday

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to mean the madness of Black Friday and major corporations. This weekend, between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the focus turns to supporting and buying locally. November 26th marks the seventh annual Small Business Saturday in the U.S.

Started by American Express in 2010, this seemingly small holiday has gained feverishly high momentum with more than 95 million participating last year alone! But the value of shopping small isn’t limited to just Saturday.

Unique Gifts

Major corporations have replica items that are mass-produced. Truly find one-of-a-kind items that tailor to your family and friends at local businesses. These interesting finds will not only have people asking where you found these items, it’ll also create insight and curiosity to experience more small businesses in your area.

Personalized Service

Finding assistance at a chain store can be difficult; on Black Friday it’s nearly impossible. Small businesses offer an overall better personal experience that larger chains often fail to meet. While every business is different, smaller ones are used to more personal interactions with customers. With stronger costumer service, these small businesses allow the community to build personal connections, thereby building trust and a strong network, all while keeping the economy healthy.

Keeping it Local

Shopping at small businesses helps keep your spent money within the community. A series of studies by Civic Economics found that 48% of money transferred through purchases made at smaller businesses goes right back into the community, compared to less than 14% with chain stores. This largely helps improve schools, libraries and other public services crucial to a thriving community.

Helping Create Jobs

The Small Business Administration found that 28 million small businesses in America account for 54% of all sales in the U.S. Plus, small businesses have provided 55% of all jobs and 66% of all new jobs since the 1970s. By shopping small, you are contributing to local economies by bringing growth and innovation to jobs.

Making a Difference

Helping stimulate the local economy is great, but beyond actual dollars, small business owners are also more likely to volunteer and give back to their community as well. Small businesses are more likely to go beyond writing a check to a local cause and instead may get into fundraising and volunteering with local activities. With these local bonds and partnerships with other organizations and businesses, greater community ties are formed, positively impacting the local area.

Bring Visibility to Local Artists and Other Small Businesses

Word of mouth is a powerful thing. By experiencing the wonders of small businesses, you’ll most likely stop by another independent shop in your community and local vendors. Some small businesses offer products that are made locally, creating visibility to local artists. It’s through these unique discoveries that you’ll be curious to find other similar shops.

We Know the Value of Your Business

At the Alamo EDC, small businesses should be celebrated all year around. With tremendous value to our local economy, we offer small businesses, established businesses and entrepreneurs the opportunity to grow. We encourage you to register your small business (commercial or retail) with us to get the process started immediately. Reach out to us to learn more about what we can do for you.